"I lost my son Phillip to depression, then suicide on 7 April 2004. I became a media volunteer because I wanted people to know that depression and suicide can happen to anyone. People feeling suicidal should not be ashamed to seek help, and more importantly should be listened to and taken seriously. I have gained so much from being a volunteer. The training was really good and helped me understand what a journalist is looking for, and get the most important points across. I have met wonderful, brave people who, by talking about what has happened to them, are trying to make a difference to their and other peoples' lives."
Moureen Leitch, Choose Life media volunteer
Your personal experience could be used to educate the public to understand issues surrounding suicide and provide hope and encouragement for others.
Choose Life recognises the need to work with journalists and broadcasters to inform their coverage of mental health issues. Central to this is enabling individuals with first-hand experience of suicide to tell their own stories.
Full training to prepare you for being interviewed is provided. Although the impact is greatest if you disclose your identity, you can remain anonymous. Ongoing support during and after all media work is also provided.
Volunteers have featured in local and national press, in magazines and on TV and radio to talk about mental health issues including positive mental wellbeing, mental ill-health, suicidal intentions, bereavement, stigma and recovery.
Some of our media volunteers have featured on Talking Scotland (external link) a Scottish Television programme focusing on issues of importance to the country.
The media volunteers programme was developed and is co-ordinated by 'see me'. Find out if this opportunity is right for you by contacting 'see me' on 0131 624 8945 or email info@seemescotland.org
0800 83 85 87
08457 90 90 90